ASSA
Bloemfontein has an active History Group researching various topics
of historical interest, especially relating to astronomical history
in Bloemfontein. People interested in the work of this group can
contact us for more info.

Present
Activities

The
Lamont-Hussey ObservatoryResearch on the Lamont-Hussey Observatory, situated
on Naval Hill in Bloemfontein, now a drama theatre (known as the "Observatory
Theatre"). The research involves the accumulation of information
and articles to assist Dr. Patrick Seitzer of the University of Michigan.
The studies also aim to heighten the public's awareness in Bloemfontein
on the Observatory and its history. Go
to Lamont-Hussey website.

Boyden
Observatory's heritage
An informal and ongoing effort to ensure the survival of historical
Boyden documents, pictures and related archives. Read a summary of
the Boyden history on the Physics Department's site for Boyden: Boyden
History.

Roberts
ArchivesAssisting Boyden, Tim Cooper and Brian Fraser with
the A.W. Roberts variable star archives left at Boyden Observatory
many decades ago. An international effort cooperating with AAVSO in
the USA. Contact the club for more information.

The
10 inch Photographic Triplet Metcalf Refractor
The Metcalf telescope has been restored together with Boyden Observatory
and the Friends of Boyden to an operational state, where it is now
used for amateur and sometimes public observations. Discussions with
Richard R Diddick revealed his research into Rev. J.H. Metcalf, the
maker of the 10 inch's mirrors. Go to the Metcalf
Memorial Page.

Digitizing of the Centre minutes
Mr. Dawie van Jaarsveldt has spent countless hours to summarize all
the ASSA Bloemfontein minutes from its first meeting in 1959, in order
to be placed on the internet. It was officially completed in 2005, but is still ongoing for current years. Go
to the archives.

Southern
African Astronomical History

ASSA National Historical section:
...the most comprehensive database on Southern African astronomical
history - one cannot ask for more. Maintained by Chris de Coning,
director of ASSA's historical section. Go to ASSA
history database.